Video Professor allows you to learn computer programs for free. But Steven Madden says he was charged quite a bit when he took the offer to learn how to buy and sell on eBay. He saw the ads for Video Professor on television and handed over his debit card number to pay for shipping and processing.
"I was only going to have to pay $6.95," said Madden.
If he didn't want to keep the lessons he could send one CD back and get a full refund. Instead he was charged $189. It's an amount he claims he had no idea he'd be facing with this free offer.
"He has a good program there's a lot of learning to be done if people have the money to go with it but he's got this direct thing on TV that says "FREE, FREE"," said Madden. "He don't tell you all these small details and that's not right."
The devil is in the details. On the Video Professor packet you'll find the return requirements in fine print. If you don't follow them carefully you won't get your money back.
"And if you do follow them correctly, like I did, you still don't," said Madden. "They still deduct your money."
Madden said he's been trying to get that money back for three months. So 7 On Your Side starting asking Video Professor to explain the charges.
Spokesperson Brian Olson said, "this shouldn't have happened" and that the "refund is being expedited". Olson then sent Madden a full set of the "Learn eBay" lessons at no charge. Olson also wanted consumers to know the company has an "A" rating with the Better Business Bureau. Click here to view Video Professor rating.
Now Madden just hopes others think twice before considering that next free offer.
"Don't take everything for free," said Madden. "Everything ain't free."
7 On Your Side wants to make sure you know how to protect yourself when you consider a free trial offer. The Federal Trade Commission says you should ask the seller these questions before you make a decision:
-Is the free trial offer related to a membership, subscription or extended service contract?
-Do I have to contact the company to avoid receiving more merchandise or services? If so, how much time do I have? What is my deadline?
-Who do I contact to cancel? How do I cancel?
-Will you automatically bill my credit card for anything?
For more advice from the FTC about free trial offers click here.
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